Significance Of Traditional Ornaments In Indian Weddings
In a Hindu marriage, there are customs and traditions galore. One of the custom is to do ‘solah shringar’ on the wedding day which means the bride wears all the sixteen ornaments on the Big day. It includes the red and gold ethnic wear (Saree, Lehenga), Vermilion, Bangles, Anklets, Nose Ring, Armlets, perfume and many more.
We have been following these customs passed by our ancestors from time immemorial but do you have any idea what is the significance of traditional ornaments in weddings barring the fact that they beautify the bride.
The Significance Of These Traditional Ornaments In Indian Weddings:
Most of us already know about the significance of traditional ornaments like Mangal Sutra (Sacred Necklace) or Mehndi which are so glorified by our Bollywood movies. So, let us look at the lesser glorified traditional ornaments and the significance it holds in the Hindu traditional system of marriage.
Toe Ring
Toe ring, popularly called Bichiya in India is always recommended for women after marriage in Hinduism. There are several significances associated with it. One is that it is a symbol of a woman’s dual status, one of a wife and other of a sister. That is why women wear it in both feet. It symbolises that if husband dies, the brother will be there to protect her sister.
Second is that wearing toe rings creates friction while walking which regularises women’s menstrual cycle. It is considered beneficial for the gynaecological problems.
Anklet
Anklets or ‘Payal’ look beautiful on the feet of the brides.The reason behind wearing anklets is to inform the family members about the arrival of the bride in the room or anywhere they are sitting. It is so that they can welcome her with respect.
Hindu women usually wear payals made of silver and not gold because it is believed that gold is the metal of the gods , thus should not be worn in the lowest part of the body.
Nose Ring
Nose ring or Nath is worn on the left nostrils in the northern Indian while in the Southern India, women wear it on the right nostrils. It is believed that piercing nostrils is paying respect to Goddess Parvati.
Apart from the fact that it is a symbol of a married women, it is believed that the nose pierced on the nostril gives relief in the pain during the menstrual cycle.
Bangles
Bangles are a part of the solah shringar and hold great importance in Hindu culture. Wearing bangles is necessary for the new brides.
Bangles are made-up of glass, gold or other metals. They are auspicious as they denote the longevity of the husband. It brings good luck and prosperity, therefore, breaking of the bangles is inauspicious as per Hindu traditions.
Sindoor
Sindoor is one of the traditional adornments which is red in color. The color red is the color of power. Thus, vermilion is a sign of the energy of the godesses Parvati and Sati.
In Hindu mythology, Sati is the ideal wife who even gave her life for the sake of his husband’s honor. Thus, Hindus believe that women who apply Sindoor in the parting of their hair can protect her husband from all the evils.
The Solah Shringar makes the Indian brides look distinct from the brides of rest of the world. Nowadays, women are not comfortable wearing all the traditional adornments. But before you ditch them, make sure you know the significance of wearing them. I am not saying wear all the traditional ornaments. Wear what you feel comfortable in because your wedding is all about you enjoying it. The least you should do is to know the significance of these traditional ornaments.
If you found the article helpful, give your suggestions in the comments section below and let us know which traditional ornament is your favourite.